World No. 1 Spain has set a new national record for consecutive games without defeat, stretching its unbeaten streak to 30 matches less than a year before the FIFA World Cup

SEVILLE, Spain – Spain manager Luis de la Fuente is keeping his feet on the ground despite the scintillating form that has made his team favorites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and established a new national record for consecutive games without defeat.

The world’s top-ranked team extended its unbeaten streak to 30 matches with a 4-0 victory over Georgia on Saturday, November 15, surpassing the 29-game record previously held by Vicente del Bosque’s golden generation between 2010 and 2013.

Spain’s run includes a perfect European Championship campaign where it won all seven games to claim a record fourth title in Germany last year.

Spain has also dominated its World Cup qualifying group, winning all five matches while scoring 19 goals and maintaining clean sheets throughout.

Its maximum 15 points from Group E games means it has virtually secured automatic qualification for the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States next summer, with second-placed Turkey needing to beat Spain, 7-0, on Tuesday to claim the group.

Speaking to reporters on Monday ahead of that game in Seville, De la Fuente acknowledged the pressure that comes with being the bookies’ tournament favorites but urged perspective.

“It’s a case of being among the favorites. Success is having chances to fight to win. There’s a very fine line between winning and losing,” De la Fuente said. “There’s no such thing as a clear favorite in a World Cup. Previously, football focused on other teams, but now Spain is among the favorites.”

The manager attributed Spain’s success to systematic excellence across the national football structure.

“The secret is excellent work in football in general. In the top clubs and in the federation, there is a specific idea and model of play. Training, investment, and belief in an idea,” he explained.

Despite Spain’s commanding position, De la Fuente insisted there would be no squad rotation against Turkey.

“We approach this match with a great sense of responsibility. For prestige. To showcase what we have achieved. We want to remain No. 1 in the world,” he said. “There will be no gifts. Here, people have to earn their place. Everyone wants to play and everyone has earned it and deserves it.”

With historic achievements in 2025, the sport of futsal has been elevated to new heights. Under the steadfast leadership of PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez, the Federation has not only fostered rapid growth in women’s futsal but also secured international acclaim, culminating in the successful hosting of the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup (FFWWC) 2025. 

This event, the first FIFA World Cup finals ever held on Philippine soil and in Southeast Asia, a region brimming with passionate footballing nations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia amid a rapidly expanding global football market, underscores PFF’s capability to deliver world-class events and inspires confidence in its visionary direction.

The journey began in 2024 with the Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team (Filipina5), making strides in regional competitions. At the ASEAN Women’s Futsal Championship, the team achieved its first-ever draw against Myanmar (1-1) and narrowly fell to higher-ranked Indonesia (1-2), signaling the program’s maturation through sustained exposure and structured support. 

By 2025, under Head Coach Rafa Merino and Team Manager Vince Santos, Filipina5 shattered barriers: qualifying for the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup for the first time with victories over Kuwait (4-1) and Turkmenistan (2-0), plus a 3-3 draw against world No. 18 Uzbekistan. Their debut at the FFWWC saw them score landmark goals against elite opponents, including a valiant 2-3 stand against African champions Morocco, where Dionesa “Inday” Tolentin and Cathrine Graversen netted historic strikes, and a spirited performance against Argentina, highlighted by Isabella Bandoja’s goal.

At the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, Filipina5 completed a trifecta of semifinal berths for Philippine football teams, stunning Malaysia 3-1—their first win over the higher-ranked side since 2007, and pushing Vietnam to a narrow 0-1 semifinal defeat. These results demonstrate measurable progress against global powers.

“Everybody put their puso on the court,” said Filipina5 main goalkeeper Samantha Hughes after the SEA Games. “We’ve already come so far, coming out of a World Cup into this, and this is just the beginning.”

PFF President John Gutierrez emphasized the program’s resilience: “What the Filipina5 achieved went through in 2025 speaks volumes about the direction of our women’s futsal program after the World Cup. This is how sustainable football development looks: competitive, fearless, and forward-looking.”

The pinnacle was hosting the FFWWC at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, where attendance consistently topped 2,000 for Filipina5 matches and surged to over 5,000 for the medal rounds, culminating in Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Portugal. FIFA President Gianni Infantino lauded the effort: “A big, big thank you to the Philippines for being such incredible hosts of the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, including a full house of over 5,000 fans at the final! This first edition has set such high standards on and off the pitch. I am especially grateful to the people of the Philippines and the Philippine Football Federation, led by President John Gutierrez.”

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chair Pato Gregorio highlighted the event’s broader impact: “This is historic, right? We hosted the first ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup. And we played so well. If we put our minds and hearts into this, can we do it? Yes. Sports can help the economy if we attach it to tourism. It’s a great way to promote our country.”

Grassroots initiatives amplified this success. The Filipina5 Futsal Fiesta, a nationwide competition spanning 37 regions and engaging over 1,300 players, bridged local talent with elite aspiration. Winning teams from clubs in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao were flown to watch the World Cup live, making the inaugural edition witnessed by a live audience coming from all regions in the Philippines. “The FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup legacy belongs to every Filipina futsal player across the country,” Gutierrez stated. “Through the Filipina5 Futsal Fiesta, we are bringing the celebration to every Regional Football Association.”

International confidence in PFF governance deepened, evidenced by FIFA’s selection of the Philippines as host following a comprehensive hosting plan in close coordination with FIFA, the 500-strong workforce of the Local Organizing Committee, PSC, the Philippine government through its Inter-Agency Task Force, and the Pasig City Government. President Gutierrez’s appointment to the FIFA Futsal Committee and partnerships with brands like Puma further solidified trust. PSC’s push to designate PhilSports Arena as the “House of Futsal” aligns with the World Cup’s legacy programs, including infrastructure rehabilitation and expanded coaching education.

Looking ahead, PFF’s 2026 strategy focuses on sustainability: forming a National Men’s Futsal Team, preparing for the upcoming ASEAN tournaments in February (Women’s Futsal Championship and April (Men’s Futsal Championship), and establishing semi-professional leagues. Investments in youth leagues and Palarong Pambansa inclusion for girls’ futsal promise broader participation.

Infantino commended the Philippines: “To host the first one of what will be a competition that will grow immensely all over the world is something which is even more special. So, I’m really proud and really happy of what the Philippines have done here.”

These achievements affirm PFF’s leadership as a beacon for holistic futsal development. As Gutierrez concluded: “The passion we saw in the arena proves that futsal has a home here. With the continued support of FIFA, our government through PSC, sponsors and benefactors, and the Filipino people, we will build a future where futsal thrives from the grassroots to the global stage.”

MANILA, Philippines–The Philippine men’s football team will face Thailand in the group stage of the ASEAN Football Championship, which will kick off in late July.

The Filipino booters were drawn into Group B, along with Thailand–the tournament’s most successful country–Myanmar, and Laos, following a ceremony held on Thursday.

Thailand was the same team that knocked off the Philippines in the semifinals of the 2024 edition, edging the Filipinos, 4-3, on aggregate in a two-legged series.

That run marked the Philippines’ first semifinal appearance since 2018, and coach Carles Cuadrat is hoping to replicate, or even surpass, that feat in the tournament now known for commercial reasons as the ASEAN Hyundai Cup.

“Although we all know how difficult it will be to achieve one of the first two places, we are also aware that we are a very competitive team that we can be fighting for classification until the last game as happened in the last edition 2024, where after three draws the team managed to beat Indonesia away and move on to the next phase,” Cuadrat said.

The top two teams after the group stage will advance to the semifinals, with the finals also being two home-and-away affair.

Vietnam, which defeated Thailand for the title, is in Group A alongside Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia and the playoff winner between Brunei and Timor-Leste.

The ASEAN Championship, the biggest football competition in Southeast Asia, will now be held in the middle of the year instead of its usual November to early-January schedule.

The Philippines, then coached by Albert Capellas, finished second in Group B behind Vietnam in the last tournament to reach the semifinals.

A historic finals appearance looked like a possibility after a thrilling 2-1 win over Thailand in the first leg of the semis at Rizal Memorial Stadium before falling short in the return match in Bangkok.

Across Europe and beyond, clubs, supporters and former players are using the game’s reach to make meaningful environmental and social change.

In the spirit of goodwill – and borrowing shamelessly from a familiar carol – here are football’s 12 eco saves of Christmas: moments, projects and commitments that deserve to be celebrated as 2025 draws to a close.

Forest Green Rovers: Sustainability as a club philosophy

Forest Green Rovers remain the gold standard. Certified carbon neutral by the UN and recognised by FIFA as the world’s greenest football club, FGR continue to lead by example. From a fully vegan menu to organic pitch maintenance and plans for an all-wooden stadium, sustainability is not an add-on at Forest Green – it is the point.

Brentford: Sustaina-Bees

Brentford’s Sustaina-Bees project stands out precisely because it is fan-led. Born from supporter groups working in partnership with the club, the initiative uses Brentford’s ‘Bees’ identity to promote biodiversity and environmental awareness around the Community Stadium.

Fans have helped drive the installation of beehives, the creation of wildflower areas and educational outreach with local schools, ensuring the project reflects community priorities rather than a top-down corporate strategy. Sustaina-Bees shows how engaged supporters, given space and backing, can turn passion for a club into meaningful environmental action.

Manchester City: Solar power at the City Football Academy

Manchester City’s Etihad Campus is now home to one of the largest solar installations in English football. Thousands of solar panels generate renewable electricity for the City Football Academy, reducing reliance on the grid and cutting emissions. The project forms part of City Football Group’s wider sustainability strategy, which includes commitments to net-zero operations and improved energy efficiency across its global sites.

Tottenham Hotspur: A stadium built for the future

Tottenham’s stadium is often lauded for its architecture, but its sustainability credentials are just as impressive. The ground uses 100% renewable electricity, low-flow water systems, rainwater harvesting and extensive waste segregation. Spurs – who currently sit an impressive fifth in the Pledgeball League – also work with suppliers to reduce single-use plastics and have embedded sustainability standards into matchday operations.

Ajax: Solar panels and battery storage in Amsterdam

Ajax’s Johan Cruyff Arena has long been a pioneer. Its rooftop solar panels are paired with a large-scale battery storage system, famously incorporating repurposed electric vehicle batteries. This allows the stadium to store renewable energy, stabilise the local grid and even provide back-up power to the surrounding neighbourhood when needed.

Wolverhampton Wanderers: ‘Green hedging’ in transfers

Wolves’ use of ‘green hedging’ has set them apart in football finance circles. By factoring environmental considerations into transfer dealings – including carbon offsetting for travel and longer-term planning to reduce squad churn – they have sought to mitigate the hidden environmental cost of the transfer market, a rarely discussed but significant contributor to football’s footprint.

Dartford FC: Brad’s Pit

At non-league level, Dartford FC’s community garden, known as Brad’s Pit, shows what can be achieved without vast resources. Built on unused land near the club, the garden provides food-growing space, wildlife habitats and a focal point for community engagement. It stands as a reminder that sustainability is not exclusive to elite football.

Borussia Dortmund: Storm 09

Borussia Dortmund’s Storm 09 programme places supporters at the heart of climate action. Working with fan groups, the club promotes energy saving, sustainable travel and environmental awareness through matchday campaigns and workshops. Dortmund’s approach recognises that supporter culture can be a powerful driver of behavioural change.

Benjamin Adrion: Viva con Agua

Former St Pauli player Benjamin Adrion co-founded Viva con Agua, a global initiative using football, music and culture to promote access to clean drinking water. Supported by clubs, players and fans worldwide, the organisation has funded water projects across Africa, Asia and Latin America, showing how football’s networks can deliver life-changing outcomes.

Brighton & Hove Albion: Sustainable travel for fans

Brighton have consistently encouraged greener travel to the Amex Stadium. Incentives for public transport use, bike facilities and partnerships with local authorities have reduced car dependency on matchdays. The club’s travel strategy is often cited as best practice in balancing fan access with environmental responsibility.

Liverpool: Reds for Blue

Liverpool’s ‘Reds for Blue’ campaign connects the club’s sustainability work with marine conservation, supporting clean water initiatives and plastic reduction efforts. Aligned with the club’s wider ‘The Red Way’ strategy, the campaign reflects Liverpool’s attempt to integrate environmental action into its global brand and community programmes.

Chelsea: Real-time energy monitoring at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea have invested in a real-time energy monitoring system at Stamford Bridge, allowing the club to track, analyse and reduce energy consumption during events. By identifying inefficiencies instantly, the system supports smarter decision-making and incremental reductions in emissions, a practical step towards more sustainable stadium operations.

None of these initiatives will save the planet on their own. But together, they show a sport slowly waking up to its responsibilities and its potential. In a season of goodwill, these are football’s eco saves worth applauding.

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Jesus returned to action for the first time in 332 days in a 3-0 win over Club Brugge, the first of three sprightly performances off the bench from the Brazilian, who could be rewarded for that form with a first start as Mikel Arteta rotates his side for the second of seven games in a 22 day period across three competitions. “You can see now, not only in games, every day in training, how much he wants it,” Arteta said of the prospect of Jesus returning to the lineup. “He’s going to deserve a chance soon.”

That last line speaks to a compelling difference between now and 12 months ago. When Palace rocked up to the Emirates last season, Gabriel Jesus needed Arsenal perhaps more than they needed him. The back half of 2023-24 had seen the No.9 lose his place at the tip of the attack to Kai Havertz and he was doing little to suggest he might win that back. Prior to his hat trick Jesus was averaging career lows in shots and expected goals per 90 Premier League minutes off the back of a preseason that was finally supposed to shake the rust off those injured knees.

Then Martin Odegaard spotted his run, his first touch left Trevoh Chalobah in a tangle and in a flash Jesus was lofting the ball over Dean Henderson, the damn seemingly broken. Two more goals would come in that game, another brace against the same opponent three days later and another in a 3-1 win over Brentford. The sense was of a player who might soon get back to the one who had, as Arteta put it, “changed [Arsenal’s] world” on his arrival from Manchester City in 2022, immediately taking a side on the periphery of the top four to title contention.

Just as he was revving up came a rupture to the anterior cruciate ligament on his left knee in an FA Cup third round tie against Manchester United, the cruel irony being that it had been the right one giving him trouble for years. The fifth knee issue of his time at Arsenal, this seemed to be it for Jesus. “It’s been a really intense journey,” Arteta said ahead of Tuesday’s EFL Cup tie. “I think when he joined us, he lifted the belief, the spirit and the energy of the club and the team. He gave something very different to what we already had, and it was really impressive.

“And then he had some very bad injuries that hasn’t allowed him to have the consistency that we need from a very important player but he’s back, I think his fighting spirit, he’s decided to always prepare the best way. He’s unbelievable and the team has got it now and we need to use it.”

Indeed now it is Arsenal that need Jesus. Havertz is progressing well after a November setback in his recovery from a knee injury with the Gunners having earmarked a potential return for the German in the new year. He will need time to rediscover his form while Viktor Gyokeres’ penalty against Everton barely papered over cracks in another low touch, low threat performance. Jesus, dropping deep and pulling wide to combine with forwards, offers a more active threat, one that Arsenal insiders have generally viewed as Arteta’s favored approach from a number nine.

“That’s probably the biggest quality of Gabi, bringing people together, connecting with people and generating a lot of uncertainty in the opponent,” said the Arsenal manager. “When you see him [in the substitute appearance against Everton], the amount of spaces that he was involved in, that’s his biggest quality. So we need to exploit that.”

The sample size so far is miniscule, Jesus having played barely an hour of football this season, but the signs are that he has returned with a bang. Against Club Brugge he crashed a shot against the crossbar and the pressure he placed on Yerson Mosquera was enough to force the own goal that beat Wolves. 

So far there have been more signs of Jesus the ceiling raiser than the forward who slogged his way through the autumn of 2024. If they could keep him fit — an almighty if for a team as wracked with injuries as this one — then there is no reason why he could not have a propulsive impact on the chase for the biggest prizes in the sport. This is a player who, as he himself put it, has “unfinished business” in north London. This is not a player looking to work some minutes back into his legs ahead of the World Cup. Jesus has lost time to make up for.

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• Paris Saint-Germain defeated CR Flamengo to win the FIFA Intercontinental Cup
• The Parisians prevailed on penalties in a nerve-wracking encounter in Qatar
• Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov successfully stopped four Brazilian spot kicks

When a penalty shootout comes around, teams rarely take the win with a narrow 2-1 victory. However, the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025 between Paris Saint-Germain and CR Flamengo was settled by such an anomaly. The reigning European champions and their opponents were locked in a stalemate, and the French club feared that their dream of further title success would slip away in a penalty shootout, but then an unexpected hero emerged in the shape of Matvey Safonov.

No one saw him coming to the rescue, especially after the French press expected Lucas Chevalier to return between the Parisian sticks. After all, Jorginho expertly converted a penalty in the 62nd minute past the Russian, and nothing at that point suggested that he would cause such an upset for the Flamengo players by literally getting inside their heads.

While he failed to deny Nicolas de la Cruz’s opening spot-kick in the decisive shootout, leaving PSG trailing, Safonov, named the Player of the Match, went on to save attempts from Saul Niguez, Pedro, Leo Pereira and Luiz Araujo in quick succession in what was a truly outstanding performance.

“He had a great match and of course we all thanked him,” said Portuguese defender Nuno Mendes, who had nothing but praise for his goalkeeper after the match. “We’re really pleased for him and for the team. I think he showed how good he is today. We’ve been practising penalties, and thankfully, today he was on hand to save them. He stopped four from the spot in a great penalty shootout.”

After arriving from Krasnodar in July 2024, the Russian goalkeeper spent much of the following season playing second fiddle to Gianluigi Donnarumma, the architect of Paris Saint-Germain’s numerous successes in recent months.

While the Italian, newly crownedThe Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper 2025, made the move to Manchester City in September, the Russian – remarkably born on the exact same day – saw Lucas Chevalier join the club as the presumed new number one. However, Safonov was handed his chance when the former Lille player recently picked up an injury. Suffice to say, he seized the opportunity, and was hailed as a hero by his teammates after the match.

“We’ve all congratulated him; we’re very pleased with him. He was fully focused. He waited for his time to come and showed what he was capable of,” said French international Warren Zaire-Emery afterwards.

“He’s settled in very nicely. He was quick to learn French and is always ready to listen. The team is his primary focus, and he always gives his all. We need players like him who are there to help the group as a whole.”

The 26-year-old shot-stopper had previously shown his worth in a penalty shootout nearly a year ago. In the last match of 2024, PSG almost got knocked out in the first round of the Coupe de France away to Lens, but Safonov, on duty in the national competition, denied them twice from twelve yards.

His team emerged victorious in the end and lifted the trophy a few months later. Despite everything, the Russian still dazzled his manager Luis Enrique on Wednesday, and the coach will have no regrets about his decision to place his trust in him in Doha.

“I think it’s the first time I’ve seen my keeper save four penalties in a shootout. We’re extremely pleased to have won this trophy, and I believe we deserve it,” said the Spanish coach, while refusing to speculate on any potential reshuffling of his goalkeeping hierarchy.

Whatever the case, PSG’s exceptional 2025 is coming to an end. If someone had told their fans following the win at Lens that a year on, another four saves from Matvey Safonov in a penalty shootout would secure them a sixth title in 12 months, they probably would not have believed it. Now who knows what the future holds for the club from the French capital?

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• It has been three years since the unforgettable World Cup final between Argentina and France
• Join us on a journey through some of the most eye-catching material from the Qatar 2022 decider
• Magical Mbappe’s frustration, Messi’s elation and much more feature

The thrills, spills, twists and turns served up by Argentina and France in their FIFA World Cup final showdown on 18 December 2022 are already the stuff of legend.

In the iconic Lusail Stadium, just outside the Qatari capital of Doha, the two giants of the global game served up a match for the ages. Despite the endless column inches that have been devoted to what proved to be one of the finest deciders of all time, fans are still being treated to footage that has not previously seen the light of day, never-before-heard sound bites and images yet to have made it into the public domain.

Join us as we relive the encounter that saw Argentina’s class of 2022 repeat the feat achieved by their countrymen at the 1978 and 1986 editions of FIFA’s flagship tournament as they garnered global glory for a third time – and watch our exclusive footage in the video at the top of this article.

The 48-team format to be rolled out at next year’s instalment of the planet’s biggest football festival means that the pretenders to the crown who go head-to-head at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, 19 July will have already negotiated seven encounters, which is one more than the six matches that Les Bleus and the Albiceleste contested en route to the tournament decider in Qatar.

The forthcoming World Cup will get under way on Tuesday, 9 June, with the pick of the national teams from across the globe set to descend on North America for the first time in 32 years, since the United States played host to the 1994 edition.

However, let’s rewind and take a deep dive into the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which earned itself pride of place in footballing folklore. The tournament was jam-packed with drama: odds-defying results, memorable matches, unexpected exits and, as if that weren’t enough, a thrilling climax in a final that ended 3-3 after 120 minutes and was decided in a penalty shoot-out.

It was a tournament that also marked the high-water mark for one of the game’s greats as Lionel Messi finally got his hands on the World Cup trophy. He was, unsurprisingly at the heart of much of the drama in the decider, converting nonchalantly from the spot to open the scoring before having a hand in Argentina’s second and then bundling home the third. His all-action display looked every inch that of a man on a mission to achieve his holy grail and plug the burning gap in his glittering CV in the process.

Having finally got his hands on the coveted crown, La Pulga revealed a more intimate version of himself as he paid glowing tributes to his team-mates, coaches and family members. Argentina’s captain fantastic had hugs for all and sundry but tailored his gaze to each of those he embraced, from coach Lionel Scaloni to wing wizard Angel Di Maria, and from his wife Antonela Roccuzzo to goalkeeping gladiator Emiliano Martinez.

Up until the 75th minute, Argentina bossed proceedings in a mesmerising masterclass that left an uncharacteristically laboured France firmly against the ropes. Such was the South Americans’ dominance that Didier Deschamps felt compelled to shuffle his pack as early as the 41st minute, when Ousmane Dembele and Olivier Giroud were sacrificed for Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani.

Scaloni, meanwhile, fielded the same side that had earned Argentina the right to vie for global glory, with the exception of Di Maria on the left flank. The inclusion of the seasoned wideman reaped its rewards, with the French completely nullified as an attacking force down the right on account of the energy expended on containing El Fideo, who gave Jules Kounde plenty to think about, particularly given the scant support that he received from Dembele in front of him. Indeed, Dembele’s rather clumsy challenge, which halted a purposeful Di Maria surge, resulted in the penalty that Messi stroked home as Argentina drew first blood.

“From the very moment we found out we’d be up against France, after they got past Morocco [in the semi-finals], we were in no doubt that we’d go with Di Maria on the left. We didn’t share that information until an hour before kick-off, and I believe that was key because it meant that absolutely nobody gained any sort of advantage. In this day and age, everyone knows everything, and that can prove to be counterproductive,” Scaloni told FIFA in an interview in which he offered the low-down on the three-pronged blueprint deployed in the quest to give Les Bleus a serious dose of the blues.

The first of these elements responded to the fact that, when in possession, France switched to a three-man defence, with the left-back (initially Theo Hernandez and then Eduardo Camavinga) pushing up into midfield and right-back Kounde shuffling over to operate on the right of a central defensive trident. That set-up afforded Argentina space to exploit, allowing Di Maria to come into the equation.

The second aspect of the tactical approach focused on dominating the central channel, in which Antoine Griezmann had ruled the roost throughout the tournament. The man handed that unenviable task was Alexis Mac Allister.

The third and crucial part of the master plan related to containing Kylian Mbappe. How exactly do you go about keeping the most clinical sharpshooter in world football at bay? “What we didn’t want was for Cuti [Cristian Romero] to end up marking Mbappe. We asked Cuti to cover in behind Molina to avoid him being dragged out wide. We preferred Cuti to stay centrally and take care of Giroud and for Rodrigo [De Paul] to pick up Mbappe, or if it came to it, for Enzo [Fernandez] to do that job. But, needless to say, you have to keep close tabs on a player of Mbappe’s ability.”

Di Maria’s lung-bursting run and slide-rule finish, which doubled Argentina’s advantage, capped off a free-flowing passing move that swept the length of the pitch, from right to left, in the blink of an eye.

Argentina appeared to be cruising towards the crown, with the stars aligning for their inspirational skipper, but France clearly hadn’t read the script and were about to throw a healthy helping of drama into the mix. The orchestrator of the defiant French revival was, you guessed it, Mbappe, who restored parity in a blur of brilliance to force extra time.

However, Argentina were not about to surrender their dream, and Messi struck again before the jet-heeled Frenchman tucked away his second penalty of the night to complete a historic hat-trick that meant that the showdown would be decided from the spot.

Mbappe’s three-goal salvo brought his tally in FIFA World Cup deciders to four after his piledriver had helped France to a 4-2 triumph over Croatia at the 2018 edition on Russian soil. The Parisian’s dazzling display against Argentina resulted in him dethroning three-goal heroes Geoff Hurst, Zinedine Zidane and a certain Pele in the World Cup final goal charts.

Desperate kisses bursting with relief were dished out left, right and centre in the post-match celebrations. Tension-relieving hugs loaded with love were handed out at will. There were floods of tears brought on by the conquest of eagerly anticipated success on the global stage.

The passion and anxiety were palpable amongst all concerned – the masses who created a sea of sky blue and white in the stands, the players and the coaching staff. It truly was the final of all finals and must-see entertainment for anyone who loves not only the beautiful game but also gets a kick out of a tantalising tale full of drama and unexpected turns.

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Unlocking Success in FIFA Ultimate Team: Strategies to Build Your Dream Squad

FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) is one of the most popular modes in the FIFA video game series, captivating millions of players worldwide. Building a dream squad in FUT requires strategic planning, understanding market dynamics, and mastering gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, this guide will help you unlock success in FIFA Ultimate Team by offering in-depth strategies and techniques to enhance your gaming experience.

Understanding the Basics of FIFA Ultimate Team

Before diving into advanced strategies, it’s essential to grasp the basic mechanics of FIFA Ultimate Team. FUT allows players to build their own team from scratch using various cards representing players, managers, stadiums, and more. The goal is to create the most competitive squad possible by participating in matches, completing challenges, and trading on the FUT Transfer Market.

Strategizing Squad Building

Building a successful squad in FUT isn’t just about having star players. It’s about creating synergy between players to maximize their effectiveness on the pitch. Here are some key strategies to consider:

• Chemistry: Chemistry affects player performance in matches. Aim for high chemistry by selecting players from the same league, nation, or club.
• Formation: Choose a formation that complements your playing style. Experiment with different formations to find the best fit for your squad.
• Player Roles: Assign specific roles like captain, penalty taker, and free-kick specialist to optimize your team’s performance during matches.

Mastering the Transfer Market

The FUT Transfer Market is a dynamic environment where players can buy and sell cards. Mastering the market is crucial for acquiring top-rated players and earning coins. Here are some tips for success:

• Market Trends: Keep an eye on market trends and player prices. Understanding when to buy low and sell high can significantly boost your coin balance.
• Sniping: Sniping involves quickly buying underpriced players as soon as they are listed. This requires quick reflexes and a keen understanding of player values.
• Investing: Invest in players likely to receive upgrades during TOTW (Team of the Week) or other promotions. This strategy can yield substantial profits.

Competing in Division Rivals and FUT Champions

Division Rivals and FUT Champions are competitive modes within FIFA Ultimate Team that offer rewards based on performance. To excel in these modes, consider the following strategies:

• Practice: Regular practice against various opponents will improve your skills and help you adapt to different playstyles.
• Tactics: Tailor your tactics to counter your opponent’s strengths and exploit their weaknesses. Adjust formations and instructions as needed.
• Composure: Maintain composure during matches, especially during tense moments. This mindset can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Engaging with the FIFA Community

Engaging with the FIFA community can provide valuable insights and support. Consider joining forums, participating in discussions, and connecting with other players to enhance your FUT experience. Many experienced players share tips, strategies, and advice that can help you elevate your game.

Additionally, following official FIFA channels and popular content creators can keep you updated on the latest news, updates, and trends in FIFA Ultimate Team.

Utilizing Squad Building Challenges (SBCs)

Squad Building Challenges (SBCs) are a fantastic way to earn rewards and acquire special player cards. Completing SBCs requires a strategic approach to maximize value and minimize costs. Here are some tips:

• Research: Research the requirements for each SBC and plan your squad accordingly. Websites like Futbin offer valuable insights and solutions for completing SBCs efficiently.
• Player Utilization: Use untradeable players in your club to complete SBCs, reducing the need to purchase additional cards.
• Profitability: Focus on SBCs that offer high-value rewards or special player cards that fit your squad.

Adapting to Game Updates and Patches

EA Sports frequently releases updates and patches that can affect gameplay mechanics and player attributes. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for maintaining your squad’s competitiveness. Regularly check patch notes and adapt your strategies accordingly to ensure you’re always performing at your best.

Conclusion: Building Your Ultimate Team

Building your dream squad in FIFA Ultimate Team is a rewarding journey that requires time, effort, and strategic planning. By understanding the game’s mechanics, mastering the transfer market, and engaging with the community, you can unlock success and enjoy a fulfilling FUT experience. Remember to adapt your strategies as the game evolves and, most importantly, have fun along the way.

For more tips and guides on FIFA Ultimate Team, visit trusted resources like the FIFA subreddit or reputable FIFA gaming websites. These platforms offer a wealth of information and a supportive community to help you on your journey to building the ultimate team.